Daniel Collins - Fine Travel


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17 day Essential Golf New Zealand

17 Days

Starts: Auckland
Finishes: Queenstown

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Day 1

Welcome to Auckland

Kia ora! Welcome to Auckland, known in Māori as Tāmaki Makaurau. Auckland is New Zealand's vibrant "City of Sails," and the country's largest metropolitan area. Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Tasman Sea, it offers something for everyone. Surrounded by native bush, lush rainforests, and pristine beaches, Auckland is a haven for both adventurers and urban explorers. Wander through world-class museums and galleries in the city centre or enjoy a peaceful retreat at the Auckland Gardens, where stunning landscapes showcase New Zealand's diverse flora. Stroll along the lively waterfront to savour fresh seafood and international cuisine at the Viaduct restaurants. For an unforgettable perspective, ascend the iconic SkyTower, New Zealand's tallest structure, and take in panoramic views of the city and its picturesque islands.

Details

Private Transfer Auckland Airport to your Auckland Accommodation with Tourcorp

You will be met at the Auckland airport by the driver and transferred to your Auckland accommodation.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Wētā Workshop Unleashed

Explore worlds of horror, sci-fi and fantasy in the making. An exciting, realistic, and authentic experience, with three fully developed and original film concepts: A nail-biting horror Fauna, a fantasy epic Age of the Ever-Clan, and the mind-bending sci-fi Origins.
A 90-minute guided experience through fully themed environments, including immersive horror, fantasy, and sci-fi story worlds. Be immersed by a specially-created unique sweeping cinematic soundtrack, animatronic creatures, physical and digital interactives, hyper-realistic sculpted giants and characters, a horror house experience, and much more.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - All Blacks Experience

See what it takes to make, shape and be an All Black. Experience first-hand the excitement and emotion of game day. Discover the stories behind some of world rugby’s most famous players, moments, and matches.
This guided experience introduces you to the game of rugby including state-of-the-art displays combining sound, images, interactive technology, and hands-on activities. Discover New Zealand’s deep passion for our national sport, experience the full force of the All Blacks haka, and tackle interactive zones where you can try out your kicking, catching, line-out, and accuracy skills against legendary All Blacks.

Accommodation

Fable Auckland

Located right on Queen Street the Fable Auckland is boutique and stylish property with an ideal location to enjoy and explore the vibrant heart of the 'City of Sails'.

Meals included: Dinner


Day 2

Auckland to Whangaroa and Matauri Bay

The trip from Auckland to the Bay of Islands takes around 3.5 hours but give yourself some leeway for stops and sightseeing. As you go through Puhoi, take in the bohemian atmosphere of this historical township. Stop for a breath of fresh salty air in Whangarei and take another break at Kawakawa - home to the world famous Hundertwasser toilets. Enjoy the native bush surrounds and marvel at the endless golden beaches as you arrive into the subtropical Bay of Islands region. Continuing north its just a short drive to Whangaroa Harbour and Matauri Bay, your destination for the night.

Details

Collect Rental Car

Choose a car to best suit your needs from our fantastic rental car range. From compact economy, hatchbacks to prestige SUVs. 

Accommodation

Rosewood Kauri Cliffs

Set on 6,000 acres near Matauri Bay, Northland, The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs affords spectacular 180-degree views of the Pacific Ocean. Cape Brett and the offshore Cavalli Islands are part of the panorama which can be viewed from the verandas, lounge, and dining rooms. A championship golf course also graces the lodge.

Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner


Day 3

Rosewood Kauri Cliffs Golf Course

Rosewood Kauri Cliffs was designed and built by David Harman. The par 72 championship golf course measures 7,119 yards / 6,510 metres and offers five sets of tees to challenge every skill level. Fifteen holes view the Pacific Ocean, six of which are played alongside cliffs which plunge to the sea. The beautiful inland holes wind through marsh, forest and farmland. Rosewood Kauri Cliffs is currently ranked #39 in the world by Golf Digest Top 100 Greatest Golf Courses in the World.
Rosewood Kauri Cliffs recently underwent a renovation from world-renowned golf course architect Rees Jones. The 5th hole received a complete redesign and was transformed from a long, uphill, forced carry par-3 to a short "drop shot" par-3. Other notable changes were the addition of tees on the 2nd and 9th holes and a bunker renovation on the 4th hole. The golf complex includes a world-class practice range, putting and chipping greens, a well-stocked golf shop, and ladies’ and men’s locker rooms. Premium ladies’ and men’s rental clubs are available.

Details

Rosewood Kauri Cliffs Lodge Experience

Located on 6,000 spectacular acres near Matauri Bay, Northland, Rosewood Kauri Cliffs is a secluded oasis. With panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, Cape Brett and the Cavalli Islands, guests stay in one of 22 cottage suites, each with their own private porch and open fireplace.
While best known for its world-class golf course, Rosewood Kauri Cliffs has many other activities on offer including horseback riding, cycling, swimming, sailing, a guided farm tour, and access to its day spa - nestled within native Totara forest. Discover New Zealand's pristine shores on one of three private beaches or fish and dive in the clear blue waters.
Ranked the number one hotel in the world in 2014 by Conde Nast, Rosewood Kauri Cliffs is also home to two astroturf tennis courts, an infinity swimming pool, spa and fully equipped fitness centre. Five-star gourmet a la carte dining is available both indoors and on the veranda outside, as well as informal barbecues and lunch hampers.

Accommodation

Rosewood Kauri Cliffs

Set on 6,000 acres near Matauri Bay, Northland, The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs affords spectacular 180-degree views of the Pacific Ocean. Cape Brett and the offshore Cavalli Islands are part of the panorama which can be viewed from the verandas, lounge, and dining rooms. A championship golf course also graces the lodge.

Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner


Day 4

Matauri Bay to Paihia, Bay of Islands

Today return south through Kerikeri known for its crafts studios, fruit orchards and artisan products. Home to two of the oldest buildings in the country Mission House and the Stone Store
(both of which encompass materials and artifacts from early european settlers) Kerikeri is a delightful place to learn about New Zealand's early history. Continue on to Paihia, your destination for the night and great a base from which to explore the Bay of Islands.

Accommodation

Paihia Beach Resort & Spa

Located in a superb beach position overlooking the Bay of Islands, Paihia Beach Resort & Spa offers stunning ocean views from every balcony and patio. The resort also features a 20 metre heated saltwater pool, large Jacuzzi, private steam and sauna rooms.

Meals included: Breakfast


Day 5

Waitangi Golf Club - suggested activity

The Waitangi Course not only provides an exciting and ever changing challenge to the golfer but also the most tremendous panorama of sea and island views over the Bay of Islands and Russell, river and estuary views over Waitangi and Opua and rolling bush and forest views inland over Mount Bledisloe and Puketona.
These views are complemented by well groomed greens and fairways surrounded by areas of flowering native trees which provide sanctuary for many varieties of native birds. As many visiting golfers, particularly those from overseas, claim Waitangi is truly millionaires country for all to enjoy.
In 1932 the then Governor General of New Zealand, Lord Bledisloe and his wife Lady Bledisloe purchased just over one thousand acres of land on the Waitangi Peninsular and donated it to the inhabitants of New Zealand as a place of historic interest and recreational enjoyment for their benefit and use in perpetuity.
This land is known as the Waitangi National Trust and is now administered and managed under the terms of the original gift by the Waitangi National Trust Board. The Waitangi Golf Club leases the land on which the course has been developed from the Trust.

Details

Explore Bay of Islands

Commonly known as the ‘winterless north’ New Zealand’s Bay of Islands is made up of over 140 subtropical atolls. Renowned for its untouched beaches, abundant marine life, and idyllic climate, this tropical paradise ticks all the boxes. Spend some time on a remote stretch of beach, or see the dolphins on an ocean safari. If diving is your thing, take the morning to descend the Rainbow Warrior - The Greenpeace flagship sunk by French saboteurs in 1985. Wander around Russell, a whaling port founded in 1843. Learn about our culture in historic Waitangi, the site where The Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840 between the Māori and Europeans. Alternatively, you may like to take a day tour to Cape Reinga, the very top of the North Island.

Accommodation

Paihia Beach Resort & Spa

Located in a superb beach position overlooking the Bay of Islands, Paihia Beach Resort & Spa offers stunning ocean views from every balcony and patio. The resort also features a 20 metre heated saltwater pool, large Jacuzzi, private steam and sauna rooms.

Meals included: Breakfast


Day 6

Paihia, Bay of Islands to Auckland via Waipoua Forest

Today you will leave the Bay of Islands for a scenic return trip to Auckland. Head west, leaving the Pacific Ocean for the wilder seas of the Tasman and Hokianga. Go through the small townships of Omapere and Opononi, each with a great seaside feel.
Your route now goes south through Waipoua Forest, home to the largest and oldest Kauri trees in the country. Make sure you allow time for several of the signposted short walks as you pass - not to be missed is the five minute loop to view the largest of all the trees -Tane Mahuta.
As you make your way back down the country you’ll pass the Matakohe Kauri Museum with extensive displays on the region’s logging, farming and social history. Continuing on, go through Warkworth and the bohemian settlement of Puhoi before crossing the harbour bridge to arrive in Auckland city.

Accommodation

Fable Auckland

Located right on Queen Street the Fable Auckland is boutique and stylish property with an ideal location to enjoy and explore the vibrant heart of the 'City of Sails'.

Meals included: Breakfast


Day 7

Huka Falls Jet Boat Ride

The Huka Jet is 30 minutes of pure fun and exhilaration, skimming close to cliffs, sliding past trees, feeling the adrenalin of full 360 degree spins. The excitement continues right up to the base of the foaming Huka Falls, where you get a spectacular water level view to New Zealand's most visited natural attraction. Nothing compares to watching 220,000 litres per second tumbling over the cliff face towards you.
The water from the mighty Huka Falls runs down the Waikato River through a series of Hydro Power Stations. You'll get a view of the Wairakei Geothermal Power Station in the comfort of a powerful Chevrolet V8 jet boat. This unique Geothermal Power Station uses underground geothermal activity to produce hot steamy water. The Waikato Rivers beautiful environment is varied and unique and is New Zealand's longest river flowing north from our largest lake, Lake Taupō.

Details

Auckland to Taupo

Heading south from Auckland you'll go through the lush pastures of Waikato king country. Choose to bypass Hamilton or if you've got the time, stop in to visit the renowned Hamilton Gardens - a detour we highly recommend. Continue on, following the Waikato River through the small township of Cambridge to eventually arrive in Taupo, which sits on New Zealand's largest lake - Lake Taupo - and is actually a giant volcanic caldera.

Accommodation

Acacia Cliffs Lodge

Acacia Cliffs Lodge occupies a simply stunning location with spectacular lake and mountain views along with superb cuisine and secluded luxury yet only minutes from the region's attractions.

Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner


Day 8

Kinloch Golf Course

Ranked in 2013 in the Top 100 in the World by Golf Course Architecture Magazine, The Kinloch Club was also rated on opening in 2007 as the top new golf course outside North America by the prestigious US Travel and Leisure Golf Magazine. The Golden Bear visited Kinloch to oversee construction of his signature Championship golf course and returned to The Kinloch Club in February of 2008 to play the course for the first time since completion. Jack was extremely happy with how his vision had come to fruition and was greatly impressed with the maturity of the golf course after it's 'grow in' stage. The Kinloch Club (Nicklaus signature golf course) is the only Nicklaus designed golf course in New Zealand.

Accommodation

Acacia Cliffs Lodge

Acacia Cliffs Lodge occupies a simply stunning location with spectacular lake and mountain views along with superb cuisine and secluded luxury yet only minutes from the region's attractions.

Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner


Day 9

Taupo to Napier

The road from Taupo climbs high onto the plateau crossing the Ahiminawa Range before arriving onto the Pacific Coast just north of the worlds finest art deco city of Napier.
Napier, the city by the sea, is renowned for its 1930s Art Deco architecture, events such as the Art Deco Weekend in February, stately Norfolk pines, surrounding wineries and local fresh produce. Supported by a Mediterranean climate and over 2,200 hours of sunshine a year this popular year-round destination boasts a vibrant cafe culture amongst the splendour of the Art Deco buildings. Around 30 cafes are within walking distance of the central city area, while Ahuriri, just over Bluff Hill, is home to a further cluster of up market establishments. Marine Parade overlooks the Pacific Ocean and out towards Cape Kidnappers, home to the world's largest mainland gannet colony. A full day can be taken visiting Ocean Spa hot pools and swimming complex, the Hawke's Bay Museum and the National Aquarium of New Zealand.
A landmark of Napier is Bluff Hill, which is home for many Napier residents and provides views of the town,  beaches of Perfume Point and Westshore and out towards Whirinaki. Bluff Hill also overlooks the Port of Napier, one of New Zealand's busiest ports, transporting timber, local fruit and meat products to worldwide destinations.
In 1931, New Zealand's greatest natural disaster struck Hawke's Bay. At 10.47am on Tuesday February 3rd, an earthquake of magnitude Richter 7.8 struck. In a minute and a half, in two separate shocks, the centre of Napier was almost totally destroyed. Fires quickly broke out and reduced to ashes or gutted what the tremors had left standing. Damage in Hastings was also devastating, although the fires were contained. Wairoa and the smaller towns to the south as far as Dannevirke were affected. There were 258 deaths, 162 in Napier, 93 in Hastings and 3 in Wairoa along with many injuries. The reconstruction of Napier and Hastings were costly but the benefit was two modern cities and the Ahuriri Lagoon, or Inner Harbour as it was usually known, was raised over 2 metres, creating the land, which Napier desperately needed to expand.

Accommodation

Rosewood Cape Kidnappers

Located in Hawke's Bay, one of New Zealand's most important wine districts, Cape Kidnappers has a rich history. The Farm is a five-star experience set on a 6,000-acre sheep and cattle farm which encompasses land reminiscent of Montana but plunges 800 feet straight into the sea. A championship golf course designed by Tom Doak is just one reason to experience The Farm.

Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner


Day 10

Rosewood Cape Kidnappers Golf Course

Designed by legendary golf architect Tom Doak, the Rosewood Cape Kidnappers par 71 golf course measures 7,119 yards (6,510 meters) and will challenge golfers of all skill levels. Completed in 2004, our spectacular New Zealand golf course has been hailed as one of the great modern marvels in golf. Built on a ridge-and-valley landscape and with stunning sea views, Rosewood Cape Kidnappers Golf Course plays high above the ocean atop dramatic cliffs.
With cliff-edge fairways perched 140 metres above sea level and with a surface that remains firm and fast, this course offers holes unlike anything you find elsewhere in the world. While every hole has a spectacular view of the Bay, some play cautiously alongside deep ravines as others intimidate golfers with deep cliff top bunkers and sheer drops off the very edge of the earth. The golf complex includes a world-class practice range, putting and chipping greens, a well-stocked golf shop, clubhouse and ladies’ and mens’ locker rooms. Premium ladies’ and mens’ rental clubs are available.

Details

Rosewood Cape Kidnappers

With spectacular panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, nestled among 6,000 acres of rugged coastal farmland, The Farm at Cape Kidnappers offers a multitude of activities within a five-star luxury setting. Offering many comfortable spaces to relax and unwind, including intimate snug, stylish lounges, and outdoor conservatory areas - there is no better way to take in this picturesque landscape.
Choose from a range of leisure facilities such as a heated infinity pool and jacuzzi, spa treatments with beautiful forest and ocean views, a world-class golf course and clubhouse and a fully equipped gym, offering yoga, pilates, golf-specific fitness and personal training.
The Farm is also home to some of the best trails on the North Island, from independent forest walks to ocean strolls or guided farm tours - pack a picnic and set off on an afternoon of outdoor fun. Also on offer are mountain, bikes, quad bikes and horse treks for the more adventurous traveller.

Accommodation

Rosewood Cape Kidnappers

Located in Hawke's Bay, one of New Zealand's most important wine districts, Cape Kidnappers has a rich history. The Farm is a five-star experience set on a 6,000-acre sheep and cattle farm which encompasses land reminiscent of Montana but plunges 800 feet straight into the sea. A championship golf course designed by Tom Doak is just one reason to experience The Farm.

Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner


Day 11

Explore Christchurch

Following earthquakes that razed its centre and much of the outlying suburbs, Ōtautahi-Christchurch is well into a billion-dollar makeover. In the middle of the Canterbury Plains, bordering the pacific ocean, New Zealand’s newest city is an ideal gateway to exploring the middle of the South. Go punting on the Avon River, take a historic tram ride, catch the gondola to the rim of an extinct volcano or do all three! See the world's only Cardboard Cathedral and for nature enthusiasts - wander the renowned Christchurch Botanic Gardens, or head to Oxford Terrace in the city to find a great spot to eat or drink. Drive an hour in any direction to ski, mountain bike, wine taste, whale-watch, bungy jump or play golf. Take the winding Port Hills road to the French settlement of Akaroa & Banks Peninsula and tour the vines in Waipara for an authentic New Zealand wine-tasting experience.  

Details

Collect Rental Car

Choose a car to best suit your needs from our fantastic rental car range. From compact economy, hatchbacks to prestige SUVs. 

Air New Zealand flight Napier to Christchurch

Accommodation

Peppers Clearwater Resort

Peppers Clearwater Resort is a waterfront property set within beautiful grounds overlooking the clear, shimmering Lake Kaikainui. All rooms offer either lake views or views of the championship fairways.

Meals included: Breakfast


Day 12

Clearwater Golf Course - suggested activity

The par 72 championship course is home to the HSBC NZ PGA Championship. Designed by John Darby in consultation with New Zealand golfing legend, Sir Bob Charles, the course combines elements of links golf inspired by the great Scottish courses with parkland golf, more reminiscent of Florida. Playable year-round, the course meanders around a succession of spring-fed lakes and trout-filled streams, with uninterrupted views of the spectacular Southern Alps. There are five tee positions to suit players of all abilities.

To book, please organise with Clearwater Golf directly here.

Accommodation

Peppers Clearwater Resort

Peppers Clearwater Resort is a waterfront property set within beautiful grounds overlooking the clear, shimmering Lake Kaikainui. All rooms offer either lake views or views of the championship fairways.

Meals included: Breakfast


Day 13

The Panorama Room, Hermitage Hotel, Mt Cook

Since first opening its doors in 1969, The Panorama Room has gained a reputation as being one of the best restaurants in New Zealand. This reputation is reflected in the numerous awards the restaurant has received over the years. A simple philosophy of using just the freshest, local ingredients, in particular from New Zealand's South Island, is still the secret to its success today. The menu has a strong international influence and reflects both the establishment's taste and the fact that most of the chefs have travelled and worked widely throughout the world.

Details

Mountain High Scenic Flight with The Helicopter Line

The premier flight over this amazing alpine region with vast snowfields, glaciers and a spectacular view of New Zealand's highest peak, Aoraki/Mount Cook. Land high above glaciers and experience what it feels like to stand in snow amongst the mountains. Traverse the Southern Alps to view the mighty Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers as they journey slowly down towards the native rainforests and the Tasman Sea on the rugged West Coast. 

Christchurch to Aoraki-Mt Cook National Park

Drive through the heart of the South Island, crossing the vast Canterbury plains. Catch your breath in Geraldine before continuing through Fairlie. Ascending Burkes pass you'll come to the picturesque town of Lake Tekapo. Follow the road and take in the view of Aoraki-Mt Cook (New Zealand's tallest mountain) from the shores of Lake Pukaki, known for its glacier fed turquoise blue colour. Continue along the lake to your final destination Aoraki-Mt Cook Village.

Accommodation

Hermitage Hotel, Aoraki Wing Premium Plus

Experience the best views in the park from the spacious top floor rooms of the magnificent Hermitage Hotel.

Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner


Day 14

Aoraki Mt Cook National Park to Queenstown

Leaving the alpine region of Aoraki Mt Cook, you'll travel through the lakeside town of Twizel, then a little further to Omarama the gliding capital of New Zealand. Continue on over the Lindis Pass, one of New Zealand's highest roads with a summit of 971 metres. Arrive in the quaint village of Tarras, then continue on a short way to the historic Bendigo Reserve, one of Otago's original gold mining settlements.Follow the road to Cromwell, and keep going through the sheer cliffs of the Kawarau Gorge towards Gibbston, one of New Zealand's premier wine growing regions. See the historic Kawarau Bridge where you can bungy jump or relax and watch others take the plunge. Approaching Queenstown, the Remarkables mountain range comes into view as you arrive into the adventure capital of New Zealand.

Accommodation

Millbrook Resort, Arrowtown

This 175 room boutique hotel is situated on 500 acres of golf course and grounds. Surrounded by mountains the resort offers everything you need but is also close enough to Arrowtown and Queenstown to enjoy the region to its fullest.

Meals included: Breakfast


Day 15

Millbrook Golf Course

Nestled in the heart of Queenstown’s awe-inspiring alpine scenery, Millbrook Golf Course delivers an extraordinary golfing experience. Spanning 650 acres of rolling greens, water features, and majestic landscapes, it features two distinct 18-hole championship courses: the Remarkables 18 and the Coronet 18.

Renowned for its fast, true greens and superb turf quality, the Remarkables 18 offers an inspiring challenge amid its stunning surroundings. Meanwhile, the Coronet 18 sets a new benchmark for golfing excellence, seamlessly integrating into the natural terrain for an unforgettable experience.

With meticulously maintained fairways, premium facilities, expert coaching, a well-stocked pro shop, and luxurious dining at the clubhouse, Millbrook offers more than just golf.

Accommodation

Millbrook Resort, Arrowtown

This 175 room boutique hotel is situated on 500 acres of golf course and grounds. Surrounded by mountains the resort offers everything you need but is also close enough to Arrowtown and Queenstown to enjoy the region to its fullest.

Meals included: Breakfast


Day 16

Exclusive Milford Sound Heli Cruise

Breathtaking, magnificent and truly spectacular, a Milford Sound Heli Tour is a must do when visiting New Zealand. Descend through carved glacial valleys to Milford Sound where you'll join an informative cruise on the fiord itself. The unique character of Milford Sound is due to the huge volume of rainfall this region receives - resulting in a surreal world of moss, rainforest, lakes, rivers and waterfalls. You'll cruise the waterways carved by glaciers all the way to the wild west coast. On your return flight to Queenstown experience an alpine landing where you can step foot on pristine wilderness rarely seen by people. 

Accommodation

Millbrook Resort, Arrowtown

This 175 room boutique hotel is situated on 500 acres of golf course and grounds. Surrounded by mountains the resort offers everything you need but is also close enough to Arrowtown and Queenstown to enjoy the region to its fullest.

Meals included: Breakfast


Day 17

Farewell from Aotearoa-New Zealand

Bid farewell to New Zealand, taking with you unforgettable memories of its breathtaking landscapes and incredible adventures. In Maori, it is said mā te wā, which is not goodbye, it is see you soon!

Details

Return your vehicle to Queenstown Airport

Explore more of Queenstown before dropping your rental car at the airport depot and continuing your onward journey.